Comparing Boat Specs - Apache 37

rgranger · Aug 28, 2023

If you scroll down on the "sailboatdata.com" page for the boat you are looking for to the "Sailboat Calculations" field, you will find a bunch of numbers that are used to compare and contrast the performance of different sailboats. If you need some help understanding the numbers, click the small "Definitions" link in the top right corner.

So you described the boats ability to handle waves. Two things that speak to the sea-kindly nature of a boat are the Bal./Displ. ratio and the Comfort Ratio. And if you want to compare performance (especially in light air) the S.A./Displ ratio is the number you want to compare. I also pay attention to the S#.

jssailem · Aug 28, 2023

with @rgranger on the specs.

You want to be smooth in chop you need a boat that will be bigger than the chop you are experiencing. The ComfortRatio gives you a mathematical insight. You will only know if you sail on the boat.

The challenge is you are going to run into compromises. A slender long boat will cut through the waves. A light fast boat will ride the surface yet be bounced about. Look at hull design and identify what experience you desire. You have mentioned sipping drinks in the cockpit in several posts. You just posted about a boat with a 26' LWL and 13K displacement. This will make 4ft waves feel like ripples and your drink will stay put. The original Catalina 30 is 25ft LWL and 10K displacement. 3ft waves... ok may be 3.25ft. The O-Day 25 has a LWL of 21ft and 4K displacement. Bouncy bouncy in 2ft ripples isn't that what concerns you?

Or are you seeking interior space to lounge about... A comfy stern to use as a pool side seat and splash in the water.
In that case perhaps a Catalina 309 with a sugar scoop. Interestingly it has a 26ft LWL and about the same displacement as it's sister the Catalina 30 but is 32ft LOA.

So many options. I like you idea of exploring the field. For many boat owners the limiting factor tends to be budget.

Scott T-Bird · Aug 28, 2023

The info says she is a Sparkman & Stephens design, which means there are many similar boat models that you could look for. A few Tartans were S & S. Even a Catalina 38 (365 built starting in 1978) is S&S design. Jessica Watson's "Pink Lady" is an S & S 34. The distinctive characteristic of these boats is sea comfort and moderate performance. You can tell by the 26' LWL and 37' LOA that she has lonnnngggg overhangs and with her displacement, she will settle nicely in choppy seas, which is a big plus in the short wave length/steep waves that predominate Lake Michigan. I think you would be looking primarily at 60's, 70's, 80's design with these boats. There is not a lot of room for the lengths.

I'll admit that gas engines do run much more quietly and smoothly! If range and efficiency is not an issue for you, you could get along with a gasoline engine very nicely if she is well-maintained.

jon hansen · Aug 28, 2023

Apache 37

SailNet Community
https://www.sailnet.com › ... › Boat Review Forum

great review. same era as aeolus. carry lots of jibs, lots of crew and hold on tight.
i have a few friends that owned these on lake michigan. prolly one of the same boats.

they all loved them. it's the ride that is so fabulous. their PHRF rating is about the same as aeolus.

this kind of sailing takes a crew. they are a hoot on lake michigan. they ride best when pushed hard. not for the timid. they are like big solings.

great ride

Comparing Boat Specs - Apache 37

Project_Mayhem

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rgranger

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jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John

Scott T-Bird

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jon hansen

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